By Humberto Viera
02 Oct 2023, 15:36 PM EDT
Russ Francis, former NFL tight end who played for the New England Patriots and the San Francisco 49ers, died this Monday in a plane crash at the age of 70.
“On behalf of the entire New England Patriots organization, we extend our deepest condolences to the family of Russ Francis, who tragically passed away. Russ was one of the fan favorites throughout his entire career as a player,” lamented Robert Kraft, owner of the Patriots, in a statement collected by EFE.
Russ owned an air tour business and the accident occurred near the airport in Lake Placid, New York. Richard McSpadden, former commander of the United States Air Force Thunderbirds, also died in the event.
“He was a dynamic player on the field who had an even greater personality off the game. He knew no limits and always lived to the fullest. “Our thoughts are with Russ’ family, friends, teammates, and the many Patriots fans who mourn the loss of him,” the Patriots owner concluded in the statement.
Francis was chosen in the first round of the 1975 draft by New England, a team with which he played until 1980. Two years later he signed with the San Francisco 49ers, the team with which he won Super Bowl XIX. The player returned to the Patriots to play one more year and retired from the NFL in 1988.
The former tight end had 393 receptions for 5,262 yards and 40 touchdowns. In New England history he ranks 21st in receptions and 16th in receiving yards.
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